Monday, April 28, 2008
Dubai's Palm Islands - The Eighth Wonder
Dubai's Palm Islands are the world's largest man-made island clusters. Sometimes they are also called the eight wonder of the world. These are located at three different places across Dubai's coast, namely Jumeirah, Jebel Ali and Deira. These islands, which are also known as The Palm Dubai or Dubai Palm are layered with rocks and sand upon a ten meter deep seabed. Sand meant for laying down these sites is obtained by dredging in the nearby sea. The Belgian dredging firm Jan De Nul and its Dutch counterpart Van Oord have been supervising the whole operation. Work is in an advanced stage in Jumeirah and Jebel Ali while it has also picked up in the Deira section.
Dredging ships propel sand over an area, which is decided by the coordinates of Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS). This process is called rain-bowing; the name is indicative of the arc which is created due to the falling sand here. Each Dubai Palm has a breakwater constructed at its periphery, which provides it a separation from the murky seawaters. These breakwaters are constructed by laying down several layers of rocks over the seabed by sea vessels. These vessels are called pontoons and the split-hopper barges. The Jumeirah Palm alone required a staggering 7 million tons of rocks to construct its breakwater.
Each of these Dubai Palm Islands is designed to depict a date palm tree, with a trunk, a crown and several fronds. The crescent islands at the periphery are assigned to play the role of breakwaters. The construction of the Palm Jebel Ali was started by Jan De Nul in 2002 and completed by the year-end of 2006. It required a 4 km long peninsula to be built, surrounded by a 200m wide and a 17 km long breakwater. This asked for reclaiming roughly 135,000,000 m³ of rock, sand and limestone. About 5,000,000 m³ of rocks were needed for strengthening the slope.
Dubai Palm islands, which are bound to increase Dubai's costal length by an additional 520 km, will host water theme parks, luxury hotels, shopping malls, freehold villas, furnished beach apartments, health spas and similar other facilities. It was always Sheikh Maktoum's dream to see Dubai grow in free trade and tourism, and that's how these islands were conceived. The UAE property developer, Nakheel Properties, is supervising this whole work.
The Palm Jumeirah, which is 5 kilometers by 5 kilometers in size, will have a crown with 17 fronds, and a surrounding 11 kilometer-long breakwater. It will create 4,000 new homes over the period of next 3 to 4 years and add 78 kilometers to Dubai's shoreline. In fact, the residents began moving into their Palm Jumeirah homes by the year-end 2006, five years after the dredging in the area had begun taking place.
The Palm Jebel Ali, which is expected to be the home of 1.7 million people by the year 2020, will be completed by the year 2008. It will be much larger in size compared to the Palm Jumeirah, however, the tag of largest one will go to the Palm Deira, which is expected to be completed by the year 2015. Due to its mammoth size, the construction of Palm Deira is expected to take place in several phases. Dubai's tourism sector will heavily rely on these Dubai Palm Islands for its revenue, once they fully got completed.
Dredging ships propel sand over an area, which is decided by the coordinates of Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS). This process is called rain-bowing; the name is indicative of the arc which is created due to the falling sand here. Each Dubai Palm has a breakwater constructed at its periphery, which provides it a separation from the murky seawaters. These breakwaters are constructed by laying down several layers of rocks over the seabed by sea vessels. These vessels are called pontoons and the split-hopper barges. The Jumeirah Palm alone required a staggering 7 million tons of rocks to construct its breakwater.
Each of these Dubai Palm Islands is designed to depict a date palm tree, with a trunk, a crown and several fronds. The crescent islands at the periphery are assigned to play the role of breakwaters. The construction of the Palm Jebel Ali was started by Jan De Nul in 2002 and completed by the year-end of 2006. It required a 4 km long peninsula to be built, surrounded by a 200m wide and a 17 km long breakwater. This asked for reclaiming roughly 135,000,000 m³ of rock, sand and limestone. About 5,000,000 m³ of rocks were needed for strengthening the slope.
Dubai Palm islands, which are bound to increase Dubai's costal length by an additional 520 km, will host water theme parks, luxury hotels, shopping malls, freehold villas, furnished beach apartments, health spas and similar other facilities. It was always Sheikh Maktoum's dream to see Dubai grow in free trade and tourism, and that's how these islands were conceived. The UAE property developer, Nakheel Properties, is supervising this whole work.
The Palm Jumeirah, which is 5 kilometers by 5 kilometers in size, will have a crown with 17 fronds, and a surrounding 11 kilometer-long breakwater. It will create 4,000 new homes over the period of next 3 to 4 years and add 78 kilometers to Dubai's shoreline. In fact, the residents began moving into their Palm Jumeirah homes by the year-end 2006, five years after the dredging in the area had begun taking place.
The Palm Jebel Ali, which is expected to be the home of 1.7 million people by the year 2020, will be completed by the year 2008. It will be much larger in size compared to the Palm Jumeirah, however, the tag of largest one will go to the Palm Deira, which is expected to be completed by the year 2015. Due to its mammoth size, the construction of Palm Deira is expected to take place in several phases. Dubai's tourism sector will heavily rely on these Dubai Palm Islands for its revenue, once they fully got completed.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Thailand Buddhist Temples
The vast majority of people in Thailand are Buddhists for whom the temple plays an important role in the spiritual wellbeing of individuals and the community. There are over 31,200 Buddhist temples spread around Thailand. In Thai they are called wat. They are grouped into two main groups: temples which are permitted to carry out religious functions and those which are used only for living quarters for monks.
Wherever you happen to find yourself in Thailand you’ll never be too far from a temple where you can go to offer your prayers and “make merit” even if you aren’t Buddhist. Although all Buddhist temples share similar beautiful characteristics, there are some that are architecturally more magnificent and historically significant.
Temples are classified into two main categories: Royal Temples and Common Temples. The Royal Temples were either built by royalty or came under their sponsorship. In Thailand, there are about 200 Royal Temples though there are only six of the highest grade.
With its beautiful temples, rich culture and history, great weather, fine food and world-renowned beaches, Thailand is visited by approximately seven million visitors each year. It is a country of approximately sixty million people, with a land area equivalent to that of France. It is undergoing a remarkable economic expansion, with growth rates of approximately 8%-10 % each year. That’s why Thailand continues to enter the sights of Thailand property investors looking for new opportunities away from the traditional European and Caribbean markets. The two key drivers behind the Thailand property market are the domestic economic growth and tourism, and the expectation is that developments in both areas will contribute to a continuing upward trend in property prices. People buy property in Thailand for a number of reasons, from capital investments, to holiday rentals (with a long-term view of capital appreciation), to personal use as a holiday or retirement home.
Tourists and other foreigners should know some basic information before visiting Thailand and especially its temples. Thailand is a Buddhist country where Buddha images are held secret. Sacrilegious acts are punishable by imprisonment even if committed by foreign visitors. Visitors to temples should ensure that they are suitably dressed - no shorts or sing lets and ladies should also cover their arms. Shoes should be removed before entering any building and it would be polite to sit quietly when in the main temple buildings.
When visiting a temple it is polite to seek the permission of the Abbott before taking photographs or entering other than the main area. This can be done by approaching a monk or one of the many helpers found in the temple grounds. Normally permission is granted without seeing the Abbott, but your show of respect by asking, will be returned. If visiting popular temples, such as Wat Phra Kaeo in the Grand Palace grounds, there is no need to seek any permission, but you should look out for signs indicating where photography is forbidden.
Wat Phra Kaeo temple is situated in the capital city of Bangkok and is more commonly known as the Temple of the Emerald Buddha because it houses a small two foot jade statue of Buddha which rests upon a huge golden alter. The temple is very elaborately decorated with a rich array of colours that are sure to astonish and dazzle all visitors. This Buddhist temple is also significant in that it is the official royal chapel where the revered Thai royal family goes to perform their religious ceremonies. Phra Kaeo temple is situates inside the grounds of the Royal Palace and aside from the decorations of the actual building is home to some fascinating paintings and sculptures.
Wat Traimit, Temple of the Gold Buddha- the most amazing feature of this temple is the fact that the 3 meter tall Buddha image is made up of 5.5 tons of solid gold. It was made about 700 years ago in the Sukhothai period but the image was covered in plaster in fear of the invading Burmese. It was rediscovered about 40 years ago.
Besides these one should also visit the Wat Pho (Wat Phra Chetuphon or Temple of Reclining Buddha) Wat Suthat , Wat Ratchabophit, Wat Ratchanatdaram , Wat Thepthidaram , Wat Saket (The Golden Mount) , Wat Mahathat and the Wat Rakhangkositaram.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Where Wonders never cease: Experience the 7th Wonder of the World
The Masai Mara National Reserve is on the lips of every tourist destined to Kenya. It is actually the reason why thousands of tourists are jetting into the country daily from all over the world. It was only recently declared the 7th Wonder of the World. This Reserve is a perfect example of Savannah grasslands of the African plateau.
It covers 1,500 square kilometers of grassland and shrubs and is home to the Maasai people, and a variety of wild animals scattered strategically within the reserve. The most awesome attraction here is the annual migration of wildebeest also known as gnu, in August to the northern expansive Serengeti Plains and October across the Mara river to the South in search of Pasture.
The 7th Wonder of the world is watered exclusively by the Mara River and itself fed by the Orare orok river, Keju Ronkai River and its major tributary, the Talek, in addition to a myriad number of seasonal springs crisscrossing this expansive land, giving the wild animals ample amount of water during most of the season. The Masai Mara reserve is also home to Olpunyaia Swamp, the Musiara swamp and Enkoiguaatet salt lick area attracting an astonishing number of wild game that converge here in search of water and salt licks.
Among the wild game to behold at the 7th wonder of the world are the Big Cats i.e. the Lions, the Cheetah and the hard to spot albeit common Leopard. You will definitely see Masai Giraffes, Elephants, Zebras, Baboons, Jackals, Hyenas, Buffalos, Zebras, Gazelles, Black rhinos and off coarse the wildebeest. All these animals exist harmoniously and interactively within the National park. All the Lodges dotted all over the Masai Mara will offer Wildlife drives and nature walks, but it is advisable to organize your game drive with a tour company like Nguyo Safaris and Car Hire in Nairobi. With their trained personnel your sojourn to 7th wonder of the world will be a memorable event.
The 7th Wonder of the world is not an isolated Jungle. You will be treated to a good number of Lodges, Tented Camp Sites and Clubs with an Entertainment galore. These lodges and Clubs have been constructed in such a way that they blend with the environment, with tented camps perched under acacia trees, spectacular views of the Savanna grasslands and nice scenic views of mountainous ranges within your sight. Most lodges have even been constructed to resemble the Maasai homestead like the Mara Sopa Lodge, the Mara Serena lodge, and the Kichwa Tembo Camp.
You can get to the 7th Wonder of the World by Air from Nairobi's Wilson Airport. You could travel by road by a customized Safari Land cruiser 4WD or a mini 10 Seater tour Van which can be organized with the help of Nguyo Safaris and Car Hire. It is not uncommon though to find a few tourists preferring to use public transport by use of a Matatu from Nairobi to Narok from where you take another Matatu from Narok to Sekanani and Talek Gates.
All said and done, you will find that the 7th Wonder of the World provides a classic, warm and clear image of the African Savanna grassland.
It covers 1,500 square kilometers of grassland and shrubs and is home to the Maasai people, and a variety of wild animals scattered strategically within the reserve. The most awesome attraction here is the annual migration of wildebeest also known as gnu, in August to the northern expansive Serengeti Plains and October across the Mara river to the South in search of Pasture.
The 7th Wonder of the world is watered exclusively by the Mara River and itself fed by the Orare orok river, Keju Ronkai River and its major tributary, the Talek, in addition to a myriad number of seasonal springs crisscrossing this expansive land, giving the wild animals ample amount of water during most of the season. The Masai Mara reserve is also home to Olpunyaia Swamp, the Musiara swamp and Enkoiguaatet salt lick area attracting an astonishing number of wild game that converge here in search of water and salt licks.
Among the wild game to behold at the 7th wonder of the world are the Big Cats i.e. the Lions, the Cheetah and the hard to spot albeit common Leopard. You will definitely see Masai Giraffes, Elephants, Zebras, Baboons, Jackals, Hyenas, Buffalos, Zebras, Gazelles, Black rhinos and off coarse the wildebeest. All these animals exist harmoniously and interactively within the National park. All the Lodges dotted all over the Masai Mara will offer Wildlife drives and nature walks, but it is advisable to organize your game drive with a tour company like Nguyo Safaris and Car Hire in Nairobi. With their trained personnel your sojourn to 7th wonder of the world will be a memorable event.
The 7th Wonder of the world is not an isolated Jungle. You will be treated to a good number of Lodges, Tented Camp Sites and Clubs with an Entertainment galore. These lodges and Clubs have been constructed in such a way that they blend with the environment, with tented camps perched under acacia trees, spectacular views of the Savanna grasslands and nice scenic views of mountainous ranges within your sight. Most lodges have even been constructed to resemble the Maasai homestead like the Mara Sopa Lodge, the Mara Serena lodge, and the Kichwa Tembo Camp.
You can get to the 7th Wonder of the World by Air from Nairobi's Wilson Airport. You could travel by road by a customized Safari Land cruiser 4WD or a mini 10 Seater tour Van which can be organized with the help of Nguyo Safaris and Car Hire. It is not uncommon though to find a few tourists preferring to use public transport by use of a Matatu from Nairobi to Narok from where you take another Matatu from Narok to Sekanani and Talek Gates.
All said and done, you will find that the 7th Wonder of the World provides a classic, warm and clear image of the African Savanna grassland.
Shooting wildlife the photography way in Kenya.
When I first thought about doing wildlife photography in Kenya I was a bit stuck for inspiration. I was in the middle of the city with no wildlife in sight, unless you counted the people milling all around me, and I wasn’t due up for another long vacation in Kenya for at least a few months yet. So obviously wildlife photography in Kenya, in the wilderness was out of question, but someone very helpfully directed me in the very direction I am about to direct you. There are more or less all the wildlife varieties that I could want in Kenya, you just need to be at the right place at the right time.
It’s the thought of capturing on film the big cats like the lions, the cheetah and the Leopards or maybe the elephants that brings me to Kenya. What about hippos, or zebras or even rhinos? You could even go for the birds at the Kakamega Game Reserve Deep in the indigenous rain forest with beautiful bird species that you could only marvel at.
And if you don’t like the idea of going big, then do you like the idea of going small? Have you thought about monkeys, squirrels, butterflies and insects? What about the much maligned rodent varieties? As you can see there are many different types of wildlife photography in Kenya options available to you and you just have to reach out and take it.
In the wild, that is where you get all the action, all the heart pounding terror of being in the wild along with the animals, knowing that you’re in their home court and that your advantage depends entirely on the guide who’s leading you around. This then is what many of the greatest photographers interested in wildlife photography in Kenya yearn to do and where they end up anyway. Whether the reality meets their expectation of the dream is another matter entirely.
They’re there, in the wild, with the ability to get up close and candid with their wild counterparts. Nothing at all like the zoo back home, but then again what did you expect right? However, it’s also true that wildlife photography’s in Kenya are natural, and don’t have to be shots of the big game animals. Wildlife photography in Kenya shots can be of anything that is considered wild. Take the wildebeest crossing the Mara River for instance. I consider the shots that I took of this phenomenon to be God sent. The sight of the Lions bouncing and bounding around like nobody’s business and defending their territory with deep menacing growls is a sight to capture when doing wildlife photography in Kenya. The fact that they wouldn’t hurt human beings is another matter entirely.
So although in-the-wild wildlife photography in Kenya is great and looks amazing, it’s not an easy job for the amateur photographer, at least in the beginning. The Kenya wild is preferably where you might like to take your wildlife photographs, but sometimes you just don’t have the choice or the ability to do that. In that case I would recommend that you start your sojourn into wildlife photography at your local zoo. I am not kidding! Going to the Masai Mara, Samburu, or the Tsavo National Parks will offer you the opportunity to catch some of the fiercest wildlife, in their habitats, then at their best and their worst. It’s a bit like catching a movie star in their baggy sweat pants with absolutely no makeup on them! It’s fascinating and you will absolutely get the chance for candid shots if you were in their natural habitat.
It’s the thought of capturing on film the big cats like the lions, the cheetah and the Leopards or maybe the elephants that brings me to Kenya. What about hippos, or zebras or even rhinos? You could even go for the birds at the Kakamega Game Reserve Deep in the indigenous rain forest with beautiful bird species that you could only marvel at.
And if you don’t like the idea of going big, then do you like the idea of going small? Have you thought about monkeys, squirrels, butterflies and insects? What about the much maligned rodent varieties? As you can see there are many different types of wildlife photography in Kenya options available to you and you just have to reach out and take it.
In the wild, that is where you get all the action, all the heart pounding terror of being in the wild along with the animals, knowing that you’re in their home court and that your advantage depends entirely on the guide who’s leading you around. This then is what many of the greatest photographers interested in wildlife photography in Kenya yearn to do and where they end up anyway. Whether the reality meets their expectation of the dream is another matter entirely.
They’re there, in the wild, with the ability to get up close and candid with their wild counterparts. Nothing at all like the zoo back home, but then again what did you expect right? However, it’s also true that wildlife photography’s in Kenya are natural, and don’t have to be shots of the big game animals. Wildlife photography in Kenya shots can be of anything that is considered wild. Take the wildebeest crossing the Mara River for instance. I consider the shots that I took of this phenomenon to be God sent. The sight of the Lions bouncing and bounding around like nobody’s business and defending their territory with deep menacing growls is a sight to capture when doing wildlife photography in Kenya. The fact that they wouldn’t hurt human beings is another matter entirely.
So although in-the-wild wildlife photography in Kenya is great and looks amazing, it’s not an easy job for the amateur photographer, at least in the beginning. The Kenya wild is preferably where you might like to take your wildlife photographs, but sometimes you just don’t have the choice or the ability to do that. In that case I would recommend that you start your sojourn into wildlife photography at your local zoo. I am not kidding! Going to the Masai Mara, Samburu, or the Tsavo National Parks will offer you the opportunity to catch some of the fiercest wildlife, in their habitats, then at their best and their worst. It’s a bit like catching a movie star in their baggy sweat pants with absolutely no makeup on them! It’s fascinating and you will absolutely get the chance for candid shots if you were in their natural habitat.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Ecotourism destinations Australia heading the world in Ecotourism
Like your marriage date the honeymoon comes in once, for a life time so newly weds are inspired to make the most of it the moment is to rejoice and to make plans for the future. In the brink of searching for the ideal destination Australia honeymoon destinations are the foremost. Some of the key attractions are the basic attraction is its natural scenery. The perfect landscapes the sun baked horizons and the contrasting tropical rain forest and adding up to it chilly southern beaches. The sun soaked sights of Australia holds up to a magnificent panorama. The cities of Australia are dotted with fantastic coastlines and if we see the cultural point of view the culture of Australia is perfectly blended with a enthusiasm for art and food with the positive outlook towards sport and the outdoors.
Visitors or travelers have to revamp their catch on geography in this huge country as it is this sheer emblem of vastness that gives Australia and its diverse population a much of a substance. The best part of Australia is its vastness; almost the size of Europe and travelers delight. Australia is all about sun baked horizons, tropical rain forest and chilly beaches. The country has no dearth of Ecotourism destinations Australia you can visit opera house of a city on one day and beautifully tended sanctuary on the other end.
Attractions of Australia.
• Australia’s red core contains the country’s finest sculpture; its cities are beautified with red core sculpture. Its finest varied cities are dotted with excellent architecture and designs like formal gardens and monuments of historical interest.
Barossa valley: The Barossa valley is the best known region for wine production in Australia. To enjoy the best known wine producing region you are always advised to get in to back lanes. Out of 100 wine settlers at least 70 of them would invite the visitors to taste some of their grandeur. If you don’t want any of the fun then visit this place in March to May where the grapes are harvested and they are crushed and revamped to produce the high quality wine.
• Tasmania is famous for its national park which is studded with stunning deep gorges, lakes and wild moorlands. It is also one of the areas that are affected most y glacial activity in Australia.
• The Daintree forest is the escape getaway from the hustle and bustle of the town and into deep breath taking forest in the coastal lowland rainforest exactly into the wet tropical rainforest. This dense area hosts spectacular scenic view and the unique swamp and mangrove inhabitant’s native birds and tropical rain forest.
Holiday destinations Australia can be any of them mentioned above or other destinations that surely complete the character and soul of the country.
Visitors or travelers have to revamp their catch on geography in this huge country as it is this sheer emblem of vastness that gives Australia and its diverse population a much of a substance. The best part of Australia is its vastness; almost the size of Europe and travelers delight. Australia is all about sun baked horizons, tropical rain forest and chilly beaches. The country has no dearth of Ecotourism destinations Australia you can visit opera house of a city on one day and beautifully tended sanctuary on the other end.
Attractions of Australia.
• Australia’s red core contains the country’s finest sculpture; its cities are beautified with red core sculpture. Its finest varied cities are dotted with excellent architecture and designs like formal gardens and monuments of historical interest.
Barossa valley: The Barossa valley is the best known region for wine production in Australia. To enjoy the best known wine producing region you are always advised to get in to back lanes. Out of 100 wine settlers at least 70 of them would invite the visitors to taste some of their grandeur. If you don’t want any of the fun then visit this place in March to May where the grapes are harvested and they are crushed and revamped to produce the high quality wine.
• Tasmania is famous for its national park which is studded with stunning deep gorges, lakes and wild moorlands. It is also one of the areas that are affected most y glacial activity in Australia.
• The Daintree forest is the escape getaway from the hustle and bustle of the town and into deep breath taking forest in the coastal lowland rainforest exactly into the wet tropical rainforest. This dense area hosts spectacular scenic view and the unique swamp and mangrove inhabitant’s native birds and tropical rain forest.
Holiday destinations Australia can be any of them mentioned above or other destinations that surely complete the character and soul of the country.
Asia Tourist destinations in South Asia make the best of your time
Tourism in South Asia has been flourishing for past few years. With growing economic expansion of each South Asian nation, today these rapidly developing nations are going the whole hog to attract maximum tourist each coming year. South Asian Nations or in other words South Asia tourist destinations include Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka each of which is as beautiful and enticing as the other.
Bhutan Tourist Attractions
Well renowned all over across the globe as the last Shangri La (meaning- Utopian paradise) on earth, the Kingdom of Bhutan offers helluva lot of opportunities to the tourists to have fun. From awe inspiring snow-capped mountain peaks to ancient historical ruins, there are plethora of sights and highlights in Bhutan. A unique and a distinct Holiday destinations Asia, Bhutan is an excellent tourist destination. The virgin landscapes, the verdant woodland, the places of interest, the quaint villages… believe us, you will love the country.
India Tourist Attractions
Extremely popular tourist destination throughout the year, India is country that will not only amaze you but bewitch you. Vibrant with its cultural ethos and rich in history, India is a very diverse country. Spend your vacation in India and be bowled over by its sheer charm and enchanting splendor. Well known for ayurveda, Goan beaches, spicy Indian curries, green fields, The Taj … India attracts millions of tourist throughout the year.
Sri Lanka Tourist Attractions
Sri Lanka has its own uniqueness in every other aspect of tourism-whether it is food, tourist attractions, culture, museums and resorts, Sri Lanka is absolutely a class apart. People of different religion reside in this country and so people belonging to various ethnicities have ensured for its intriguing culture. Any visitor or tourist in Sri Lanka will find peace of mind in the serene environs of Buddhist monasteries. The country, besides high on greenery is also known for its Art. Sri Lankan music is distinct and soulful.
Nepal Tourist Attractions
Over the years, Nepal has seen numerous rulers and ruling dynasties. Nepal is a land that boggles your senses. With so many religious shrines, architectural wonders, heritage centers, and national parks every minute of your time spent in Nepal will be memorable.
Pakistan Tourist Attractions
Pakistan is a land of beautiful places of interest and exciting adventure. For every other kind of traveler, has something to explore in Pakistan. In the southern region you will find balmy beaches, lagoons and mangrove lush forests. The imposing peaks of the Himalayas, the Karakorams and the Hindu Kush mountains that lay in the north are very challenging for any mountain climber. The Karakoram Highway offers lovely views of the valleys in Pakistan. Cascading rivers, remote ethnicity, modern shopping malls and other attractions make Pakistan among the most sought after Asia tourist destinations.
Maldives Tourist Attractions
Among the most famous beach holiday destination, Maldives is famous for its balmy beaches, crystal blue sea water, corals and exotism. This Asia Tourist destination offers you exceptional activities to indulge in… ranging from water sports to eco tours.
With so much to see and do in Asia tourist destinations, you are bound to have a great time on your South Asia Tour.
Bhutan Tourist Attractions
Well renowned all over across the globe as the last Shangri La (meaning- Utopian paradise) on earth, the Kingdom of Bhutan offers helluva lot of opportunities to the tourists to have fun. From awe inspiring snow-capped mountain peaks to ancient historical ruins, there are plethora of sights and highlights in Bhutan. A unique and a distinct Holiday destinations Asia, Bhutan is an excellent tourist destination. The virgin landscapes, the verdant woodland, the places of interest, the quaint villages… believe us, you will love the country.
India Tourist Attractions
Extremely popular tourist destination throughout the year, India is country that will not only amaze you but bewitch you. Vibrant with its cultural ethos and rich in history, India is a very diverse country. Spend your vacation in India and be bowled over by its sheer charm and enchanting splendor. Well known for ayurveda, Goan beaches, spicy Indian curries, green fields, The Taj … India attracts millions of tourist throughout the year.
Sri Lanka Tourist Attractions
Sri Lanka has its own uniqueness in every other aspect of tourism-whether it is food, tourist attractions, culture, museums and resorts, Sri Lanka is absolutely a class apart. People of different religion reside in this country and so people belonging to various ethnicities have ensured for its intriguing culture. Any visitor or tourist in Sri Lanka will find peace of mind in the serene environs of Buddhist monasteries. The country, besides high on greenery is also known for its Art. Sri Lankan music is distinct and soulful.
Nepal Tourist Attractions
Over the years, Nepal has seen numerous rulers and ruling dynasties. Nepal is a land that boggles your senses. With so many religious shrines, architectural wonders, heritage centers, and national parks every minute of your time spent in Nepal will be memorable.
Pakistan Tourist Attractions
Pakistan is a land of beautiful places of interest and exciting adventure. For every other kind of traveler, has something to explore in Pakistan. In the southern region you will find balmy beaches, lagoons and mangrove lush forests. The imposing peaks of the Himalayas, the Karakorams and the Hindu Kush mountains that lay in the north are very challenging for any mountain climber. The Karakoram Highway offers lovely views of the valleys in Pakistan. Cascading rivers, remote ethnicity, modern shopping malls and other attractions make Pakistan among the most sought after Asia tourist destinations.
Maldives Tourist Attractions
Among the most famous beach holiday destination, Maldives is famous for its balmy beaches, crystal blue sea water, corals and exotism. This Asia Tourist destination offers you exceptional activities to indulge in… ranging from water sports to eco tours.
With so much to see and do in Asia tourist destinations, you are bound to have a great time on your South Asia Tour.
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Festive Malaysia
Malaysia's rich blend of Chinese and Indian cultures along with the native Malay makes for a unique cornucopia of festivals all year round.
One of the most exciting Malaysian festivals is Thaipusam, a Hindu festival celebrated in January or February. But be warned, with its body piercing, mutilations and frantic parades, it's not for the weak of heart. The festival involves devotees piercing themselves as devotion to Lord Muruga, the youngest son of Lord Shiva.
The main event of Thaipusam is a procession of chanting devotees carrying structures known as kavadi which are frames decorated with coloured papers, tinsels, fresh flowers, and fruits. Some devotees are in trance and as penance, pierce their cheeks, tongues, or foreheads.
Thaipusam is best seen in the temple at the Batu Caves near the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur. Devotees carry the kavadi up 272 steps to the entrance of a cave housing an image of Lord Muruga.
One of the most important festivals for the Chinese is the Hungry Ghosts Festival. Like all Chinese festivals, it's a lunar festival. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the 7th moon which means it falls in August. For several days before the actual event begins, there's a build up of festivities featuring Chinese opera and puppet shows held at temples and clan associations.
Like so many Chinese festivals, the Hungry Ghosts festival is about honouring ancestors. According to Chinese beliefs, the spirit world where the dead go is in parallel with the living world. On this special day of the year, the gates between the two worlds open and the hungry ghosts wander the world of the living in search of food and perhaps revenge on those who wronged them in life.
During the Hungry Ghosts festival, people place bundles of joss sticks, paper money, and food on street corners. This is intended to appease the spirits of the dead and dissuade them from entering their homes. The paper money known as 'hell money' is burnt and the Chinese believe this will help their family members in the spirit world.
For our final festival in this article, we'll look at something a little more modern - the World Rainforest Music Festival, a concert with a difference. It's a 3-day event that celebrates the diversity of world music and draws fans from all over the world.
The World Rainforest Music Festival has been held each July since 1997at the Sarawak Cultural Village at the foot of Mount Santubong in Kuching, Sarawak, Eastern Malaysia. The event attracts the talents of both local and traditional musicians along with international performers. In the daytime, the festival features cultural and musical workshop-oriented events with concert performances given in the night.
Malaysia is a vibrant and colourful country at any time but if you arrive there during one of the many festivals and celebrations you'll be assured of an extra special time.
One of the most exciting Malaysian festivals is Thaipusam, a Hindu festival celebrated in January or February. But be warned, with its body piercing, mutilations and frantic parades, it's not for the weak of heart. The festival involves devotees piercing themselves as devotion to Lord Muruga, the youngest son of Lord Shiva.
The main event of Thaipusam is a procession of chanting devotees carrying structures known as kavadi which are frames decorated with coloured papers, tinsels, fresh flowers, and fruits. Some devotees are in trance and as penance, pierce their cheeks, tongues, or foreheads.
Thaipusam is best seen in the temple at the Batu Caves near the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur. Devotees carry the kavadi up 272 steps to the entrance of a cave housing an image of Lord Muruga.
One of the most important festivals for the Chinese is the Hungry Ghosts Festival. Like all Chinese festivals, it's a lunar festival. It is celebrated on the 15th day of the 7th moon which means it falls in August. For several days before the actual event begins, there's a build up of festivities featuring Chinese opera and puppet shows held at temples and clan associations.
Like so many Chinese festivals, the Hungry Ghosts festival is about honouring ancestors. According to Chinese beliefs, the spirit world where the dead go is in parallel with the living world. On this special day of the year, the gates between the two worlds open and the hungry ghosts wander the world of the living in search of food and perhaps revenge on those who wronged them in life.
During the Hungry Ghosts festival, people place bundles of joss sticks, paper money, and food on street corners. This is intended to appease the spirits of the dead and dissuade them from entering their homes. The paper money known as 'hell money' is burnt and the Chinese believe this will help their family members in the spirit world.
For our final festival in this article, we'll look at something a little more modern - the World Rainforest Music Festival, a concert with a difference. It's a 3-day event that celebrates the diversity of world music and draws fans from all over the world.
The World Rainforest Music Festival has been held each July since 1997at the Sarawak Cultural Village at the foot of Mount Santubong in Kuching, Sarawak, Eastern Malaysia. The event attracts the talents of both local and traditional musicians along with international performers. In the daytime, the festival features cultural and musical workshop-oriented events with concert performances given in the night.
Malaysia is a vibrant and colourful country at any time but if you arrive there during one of the many festivals and celebrations you'll be assured of an extra special time.
Tiber River Cruise: A New Way To Visit Rome From its River
Since the end of the jubilee of Rome held in they year 2000, the majority of Rome, in cooperation with the Coast guard of Fiumicino, agreed that the river of Rome, the Tiber deserves more attention for its historical importance.
In fact since that year it has been inaugurated to the boat entrepeneurs the competition to apply for licenses and permissions to perform cruises on different parts of the tiber.
As many people do not know yet, not all the Tiber river is navigable, for the presence of marble steps, remains of old roman bridges and other hidden treasures like lead anchors.
It's so weird to see how Rome is no more noisy when you go down the travertine steps to join a cruise tour. In fact the white marble walls to protect the city of Rome against the floods from the Tiber river were built during the period of the unification of Italy at the end of the 19th century. These shields are long 6 miles and provide in assuring the security of the city against bad weather and insisting rain.
That Rome was indebted, if not for its origin, at any rate for its importance, to these commercial and strategical advantages of its position, there are accordingly numerous further indications, which are of very different weight from the statements of quasi-historical romances. Thence arose its very ancient relations with Caere, which was to Etruria what Rome was to Latium, and accordingly became Rome's most intimate neighbour and commercial ally. Thence arose the unusual importance of the bridge over the Tiber, and of bridge-building generally in the Roman commonwealth. In this sense, then, certainly Rome may have been, as the legend assumes, a creation rather than a growth, and the youngest rather than the oldest among the Latin cities.
The tiber is also the third biggest river of Italy after the Po and the Adige that flows in the romantic city of Verona.
The river of Rome has also a very important island, the Tiber Island ( isola Tiberina ) that has the shape of a boat because it remembers the transportation by boat of the sacred animal ( a snake ) and of the worship of the god of the healing Aesculapius from Greece in the IV century BC. The scholars says that this animal jumped off the boat and settled in the Island as signal for the Romans of the place where they had to built the sanctuary dedicated to the god of the healing.
Today this famous Island is connected to Rome with two roman bridges of the II century BC which allow pedestrians to cross very easily the side of the jewish synagogue with Trastevere.
Cruising the tiver river today means to visit three parts of Rome:
1- from Ponte Marconi to Ancient Ostia, famous roman colony and strategic salt harbor for the roman ships arriving from the mediterranean sea;
2- From Ponte Risorgimento until the Tiberina Island with the possibility to see also the bridge wanted by the same pope who built the sistine chapel, sistus IV
3- From ponte Umberto cruising to the northern districts of Rome, with the possibility to admire a wonderful panorama of the dome of saint peter's basilica designed by Michelangelo in the renaissance period.
In fact since that year it has been inaugurated to the boat entrepeneurs the competition to apply for licenses and permissions to perform cruises on different parts of the tiber.
As many people do not know yet, not all the Tiber river is navigable, for the presence of marble steps, remains of old roman bridges and other hidden treasures like lead anchors.
It's so weird to see how Rome is no more noisy when you go down the travertine steps to join a cruise tour. In fact the white marble walls to protect the city of Rome against the floods from the Tiber river were built during the period of the unification of Italy at the end of the 19th century. These shields are long 6 miles and provide in assuring the security of the city against bad weather and insisting rain.
That Rome was indebted, if not for its origin, at any rate for its importance, to these commercial and strategical advantages of its position, there are accordingly numerous further indications, which are of very different weight from the statements of quasi-historical romances. Thence arose its very ancient relations with Caere, which was to Etruria what Rome was to Latium, and accordingly became Rome's most intimate neighbour and commercial ally. Thence arose the unusual importance of the bridge over the Tiber, and of bridge-building generally in the Roman commonwealth. In this sense, then, certainly Rome may have been, as the legend assumes, a creation rather than a growth, and the youngest rather than the oldest among the Latin cities.
The tiber is also the third biggest river of Italy after the Po and the Adige that flows in the romantic city of Verona.
The river of Rome has also a very important island, the Tiber Island ( isola Tiberina ) that has the shape of a boat because it remembers the transportation by boat of the sacred animal ( a snake ) and of the worship of the god of the healing Aesculapius from Greece in the IV century BC. The scholars says that this animal jumped off the boat and settled in the Island as signal for the Romans of the place where they had to built the sanctuary dedicated to the god of the healing.
Today this famous Island is connected to Rome with two roman bridges of the II century BC which allow pedestrians to cross very easily the side of the jewish synagogue with Trastevere.
Cruising the tiver river today means to visit three parts of Rome:
1- from Ponte Marconi to Ancient Ostia, famous roman colony and strategic salt harbor for the roman ships arriving from the mediterranean sea;
2- From Ponte Risorgimento until the Tiberina Island with the possibility to see also the bridge wanted by the same pope who built the sistine chapel, sistus IV
3- From ponte Umberto cruising to the northern districts of Rome, with the possibility to admire a wonderful panorama of the dome of saint peter's basilica designed by Michelangelo in the renaissance period.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Hundreds of Elephants in Kenya's Amboseli Park
Amboseli National park
Amboseli national park was Kenya’s first established game park. Since 1948, millions of international guests, including Hollywood film companies, have been drawn to the park by the magic of Mt. Kilimanjaro-the snowcapped mountain reaching to the sky above, with wildlife grazing under flat-topped thorn trees below.
Despite its proximity to the mountain, many tourists today are disappointed with Amboseli because of its dusty dirt roads and the barren expanses caused in part by the overuse of humans and animals. Years of abuse by tourists vehicles have left off-road vehicle tracks where there had been grasslands. Prolific herds of elephant have broken and destroyed trees-creating stark and stunning weathered sculptures on the landscape.
Much of Amboseli is dry and desert like. In fact, about a third of the park is taken up by Lake Amboseli, a seasonal soda lake which, at certain times, appears to be dead, flat wasteland. Indeed, Amboseli is maa for “salt dust.” In dramatic areas bright green with primordial clumps of vegetation.
In Amboseli, more than in any other park of Kenya, you are guaranteed to see many elephant. Elephant herds are easily visible across rolling grassy savannas, usually grazing their way to and from major feeding grounds or water holes.
Although Amboseli has major problems, it is heartening to consider the regenerative forces of nature. Remains of trees left by elephant are returning nutrients to the soil. According to scientists, the water table of Lake Amboseli is rising. Because there is water in the lake more often, there are also flamingos to be seen. These factors, combined wth needed efforts by Kenyan authorities and conservationists to control “tourist erosion”, may help to give Amboseli the opportunity for recovery. Off –road driving is now forbidden.
Many still enjoy coming to Amboseli. Always, there is the possibility of seeing the mountain. Enjoyment of Amboseli National Park is in the eye and understanding of the beholder.
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
The Amboseli Serena safari lodge is the nicest and most interesting lodge IN Amboseli National Park. The rounded terracotta shape of the lodge resembles a Masai dwelling, and wildlife and Masai themes are repeated throughout the hotel.
To enter, you walk across a wooden bridge over running water, a pleasant contrast to the hot dusty roads of the park. Hanging gardens and water lilies contribute to an impression of a return to Eden. Rounded spaces, wall, windows and doorways combine with a certain cool dimness to take you away from the straight sharp edges of modern life. The emphasis is on smooth, natural harmony with the environment and the wildlife in it.
Whimsical wall-sized paintings of wildlife delightfully decorate interior walls. Hanging lights are shaded by the irregular shapes of hollow Masai grounds, adding interest to the ceiling. At check-in you receive your Masai war-club with key attached-“to fend off monkeys,” the receptionists say with a smile.
The passage leading to rooms is open to the sky and traverses thick tropical gardens. The bedrooms are small. However, large wall-sized windows either look towards Mt. Kilimanjaro or towards the water hole visited by herds of Wildebeest, antelope and elephant. Bedroom walls echo the wildlife outside with another animal mural. The bathroom is modern, but the wall is curved, and a Masai spear holds up the shower curtain. The décor uses natural materials in unusual ways to suggest the Masai way of harmonizing with nature; cut sticks frame the beds, a Masai club is the door handle, hollowed gourds are the bed lights.
The pool, main bar and outdoor terraces overlook the surprising green grass and bush of the water hole. There are no fences. Guests have many opportunities for game viewing, even at night, when elephant families graze just a few meters away under floodlight.
To reach the dining area you cross an indoor bridge over more running water, with floating gardens and water lilies. The dining area is broken up into several adjoining rooms of different sizes, making for pleasant and intimate services. Floor –to ceiling windows give the feeling of eating in the gardens, though the main dining room is dark, and monkeys can be uninvited “guests”.
Breakfast (with complimentary champagne) and lunch are served buffet-style, and dinners are served at a table with candle light. For an extra fee, you can choose to participate in the Masai Exotic Dinner, served every other night in the terrace below the swimming pool. Waiters in Masai Shuka serve barbequed meats and traditional foods and there is an open bar.
The lodge invites guests to help preserve and restore the ecology of Amboseli by planting a tree in the 25 hectares of grounds surrounding the lodge. For those interested in Masai Culture, Masai customs are explained informally in afternoon lectures in the conference room, and Masai dancers appear at night campfire.
The clientele often includes tour groups, guests usually stay for only one night, and for many it is their first experience with animals in the wild.
Accommodations at the Amboseli Serena Lodge
Bedrooms are small. There are 86 with twin beds and 10 with double beds. All have modern bathrooms with combination bathtub and shower. Rooms with double beds are smaller and have no large window. Best water hole views #45-51. Best views of Kilimanjaro,#23 &24. Good views of Kilimanjaro # 4-26.
Special offerings
Game drives, bird walks, binoculars, swimming pool, jogging path, play ground, small airplane flights over Mt. Kilimanjaro by arrangement, folk singing guitarists at night, lectures on masai culture, library room, souvenir and sundry shop. Resident nurse, gas station, conference room.
Amboseli national park was Kenya’s first established game park. Since 1948, millions of international guests, including Hollywood film companies, have been drawn to the park by the magic of Mt. Kilimanjaro-the snowcapped mountain reaching to the sky above, with wildlife grazing under flat-topped thorn trees below.
Despite its proximity to the mountain, many tourists today are disappointed with Amboseli because of its dusty dirt roads and the barren expanses caused in part by the overuse of humans and animals. Years of abuse by tourists vehicles have left off-road vehicle tracks where there had been grasslands. Prolific herds of elephant have broken and destroyed trees-creating stark and stunning weathered sculptures on the landscape.
Much of Amboseli is dry and desert like. In fact, about a third of the park is taken up by Lake Amboseli, a seasonal soda lake which, at certain times, appears to be dead, flat wasteland. Indeed, Amboseli is maa for “salt dust.” In dramatic areas bright green with primordial clumps of vegetation.
In Amboseli, more than in any other park of Kenya, you are guaranteed to see many elephant. Elephant herds are easily visible across rolling grassy savannas, usually grazing their way to and from major feeding grounds or water holes.
Although Amboseli has major problems, it is heartening to consider the regenerative forces of nature. Remains of trees left by elephant are returning nutrients to the soil. According to scientists, the water table of Lake Amboseli is rising. Because there is water in the lake more often, there are also flamingos to be seen. These factors, combined wth needed efforts by Kenyan authorities and conservationists to control “tourist erosion”, may help to give Amboseli the opportunity for recovery. Off –road driving is now forbidden.
Many still enjoy coming to Amboseli. Always, there is the possibility of seeing the mountain. Enjoyment of Amboseli National Park is in the eye and understanding of the beholder.
Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge
The Amboseli Serena safari lodge is the nicest and most interesting lodge IN Amboseli National Park. The rounded terracotta shape of the lodge resembles a Masai dwelling, and wildlife and Masai themes are repeated throughout the hotel.
To enter, you walk across a wooden bridge over running water, a pleasant contrast to the hot dusty roads of the park. Hanging gardens and water lilies contribute to an impression of a return to Eden. Rounded spaces, wall, windows and doorways combine with a certain cool dimness to take you away from the straight sharp edges of modern life. The emphasis is on smooth, natural harmony with the environment and the wildlife in it.
Whimsical wall-sized paintings of wildlife delightfully decorate interior walls. Hanging lights are shaded by the irregular shapes of hollow Masai grounds, adding interest to the ceiling. At check-in you receive your Masai war-club with key attached-“to fend off monkeys,” the receptionists say with a smile.
The passage leading to rooms is open to the sky and traverses thick tropical gardens. The bedrooms are small. However, large wall-sized windows either look towards Mt. Kilimanjaro or towards the water hole visited by herds of Wildebeest, antelope and elephant. Bedroom walls echo the wildlife outside with another animal mural. The bathroom is modern, but the wall is curved, and a Masai spear holds up the shower curtain. The décor uses natural materials in unusual ways to suggest the Masai way of harmonizing with nature; cut sticks frame the beds, a Masai club is the door handle, hollowed gourds are the bed lights.
The pool, main bar and outdoor terraces overlook the surprising green grass and bush of the water hole. There are no fences. Guests have many opportunities for game viewing, even at night, when elephant families graze just a few meters away under floodlight.
To reach the dining area you cross an indoor bridge over more running water, with floating gardens and water lilies. The dining area is broken up into several adjoining rooms of different sizes, making for pleasant and intimate services. Floor –to ceiling windows give the feeling of eating in the gardens, though the main dining room is dark, and monkeys can be uninvited “guests”.
Breakfast (with complimentary champagne) and lunch are served buffet-style, and dinners are served at a table with candle light. For an extra fee, you can choose to participate in the Masai Exotic Dinner, served every other night in the terrace below the swimming pool. Waiters in Masai Shuka serve barbequed meats and traditional foods and there is an open bar.
The lodge invites guests to help preserve and restore the ecology of Amboseli by planting a tree in the 25 hectares of grounds surrounding the lodge. For those interested in Masai Culture, Masai customs are explained informally in afternoon lectures in the conference room, and Masai dancers appear at night campfire.
The clientele often includes tour groups, guests usually stay for only one night, and for many it is their first experience with animals in the wild.
Accommodations at the Amboseli Serena Lodge
Bedrooms are small. There are 86 with twin beds and 10 with double beds. All have modern bathrooms with combination bathtub and shower. Rooms with double beds are smaller and have no large window. Best water hole views #45-51. Best views of Kilimanjaro,#23 &24. Good views of Kilimanjaro # 4-26.
Special offerings
Game drives, bird walks, binoculars, swimming pool, jogging path, play ground, small airplane flights over Mt. Kilimanjaro by arrangement, folk singing guitarists at night, lectures on masai culture, library room, souvenir and sundry shop. Resident nurse, gas station, conference room.
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